New board created to help struggling hospitality industry

• • Andrew Gibbs (Jaks Bar & Steak House), Licensed Victuallers Association (LVA) Representative
• • Enzo Ciappelli (Enzos Restaurant), Isle of Man Restaurateurs Association Representative
• • Ken Kneale (Kneale Ltd.), Licensing Qualification Representative
• • Robert Cowell (Bourne Place), Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce Representative
• • Steven Taylor (Okells Inns Ltd.), Visit Isle of Man Board Member and Okells Inns Representative
• • Andrea Bartlett (Shore Hotel Laxey), Independent
• • Jamie Blair (Roots), Independent
• • Luke Mckeown (Mannin Hotel), Independent
• • Robin Mowat (The Boatyard Peel & Vibe Café), Independent
• • Rory Dorling (Gelatory), Independent
• • Sacha Horsthuis (Cycle 360), Independent
• • Vicky Quirk (Victory Cafe), Independent

Tim Cowsill, CEO of Business Isle of Man, Deborah Heather, CEO of Visit Isle of Man, and Robert Hunter, Chef Lecturer at University College Isle of Man, will join the Board as non-voting members.

DfE Minister Tim Johnston revealed the plans at this year's Government Conference (17 September).

He says: "I am pleased to see the formation of Hospitality Isle of Man, which will provide a unified voice for the sector. By having a direct line with decision makers through both the Visit and Business Agencies, the Board will ensure that the unique challenges and opportunities within the hospitality industry are heard and addressed at the highest levels.

"The formation of this Board follows the release of the draft Local Economy Strategy, which emphasises the importance of business voices in shaping the future of the Island’s local economy, including hospitality. 

"Additionally, the Board’s work will play a crucial role in supporting the Island’s tourist offering, enhancing the visitor experience and promoting the Isle of Man as a vibrant destination. 

"We look forward to the Board’s input in guiding the sector towards sustainable growth."

Chair of the Board Jamie Lewis - who's also a Business Isle of Man Board Member and Managing Director at Extra Fancy Ltd says: "We are thrilled with the level of interest we received during the recruitment process, and I would like to thank everyone who applied for the board positions.

"The formation of this Board marks a significant step towards unifying the diverse voices within our sector, from small independent cafés to larger establishments, and for the first time, bringing together both domestic and tourist-focused hospitality businesses.

"By bringing together key industry representatives and independent businesses, I have no doubt that we will create a strong platform for growth and innovation, as well as develop industry-led solutions to current challenges."